If the wound is deemed serious or life threatening, decision making regarding the required medical care may cease to be optional for the young person

Advocate for the young person to ensure they receive a professional response when in contact with ambulance, hospitals or other health professionals and services

Assess the intent of the self-injuring episode (re: to release a feeling, suicide ideation, etc) as well as the immediate risk of the young person self-injuring further

A young person who self-injures may require a counselling session post injury. The session could include a reflection of the context of the self-injuring behaviour, the triggers, outcomes of the behaviour and possible strategies to try in the future. If it is the first time the young person has self-injured it is a crucial opportunity for psychoeducation, de-mystifying, reducing shame, normalising, and making a plan for the future.

Seek consent from the young person to inform relevant health and support workers of their self-injury.